EPA's Oversight Role Should Be Strengthened With Respect to Oil Spills of National Significance

摘要

Oig noted that the additional sampling conducted by both EPA and BP did provide assurance that the waste was being properly handled and disposed. However, OIG also found that EPA's lack of clear internal communications on the E&P waste exemption resulted in a lack of transparency in agency actions on this issue. In order for EPA staff and the regulated community to understand the need for additional oversight and testing of waste during nationally significant spill events, the agency needs to have a consistent and sufficiently justified message during any future events.